‘Now You See Me 3’ release date, cast rumors: Who would return for the third magic-filled heist?

​Fans of Lionsgate’s heist thriller series were surprised recently by the announcement that the production of “Now You See Me 3” is still a go. It appears to still be in the early phase, though, so fans will have to wonder for a while if the original cast will remain intact for the third film.

‘Now You See Me 3’ cast speculations

The studio welcomed “American Hustle” screenwriter Eric Warren Singer to build the script of “Now You See Me 3.” This suggests that the movie still has ways to go before arriving in theaters, but Lionsgate has also confirmed that familiar cast members will return without naming who will reprise their roles.

However, Lionsgate is very likely referring to the core group of the cast in the first two movies. It is safe to assume that Jesse Eisenberg, Dave Franco, and Woody Harrelson will reprise their roles as Atlas, Jack, and Merritt -- the original members of the Four Horsemen.

Other reports keep mentioning Isla Fisher, who played the only female in the group named Hensley in the first movie. But she was replaced by Lizzy Caplan as Lula May in the sequel. It is now a little bit tricky if the threequel is going to bring back either Fisher and Caplan or both for “Now You See Me 3.” Meanwhile, Mark Ruffalo is also very possible to return as Dylan Shrike, who has been acting as the leader of the group.

What’s been confirmed for now is that “Now You See Me 3” will introduce new characters, but whether they are good or bad guys is still a mystery. It is also still unknown if supporting cast members Morgan Freeman and Michael Caine will return to portray Thaddeus Bradley and Arthur Tressler, respectively, again in the next movie. While playing background characters, they have been important to the development of the Four Horsemen.

‘Now You See Me 3’ possible release date

Lionsgate’s announcement did not mention any hints about the release date of “Now You See Me 3.” If the confirmation of hiring Singer to pen the script suggests work on the movie has just started, it might likely take up to three years before the movie is out.

It can be recalled that there was a three-year gap between the first two movies’ premiere dates. In this case, fans might have to wait until 2023 to see “Now You See Me 3.”